Casual Stripes

Hello Lovelies

Today, I have a mini outfit post. This is a very casual, typical outfit for those days that are warm but have a little breeze. I am very much about functionality in my fashion. My days consist of constantly being on the move, and I don't like to be too fussy over my outfits, otherwise I end up getting exhausted just from dealing with a high maintenance outfit.

Stripes are the most versatile print for any season, and I have so many that I should probably go to stripe lovers anonymous. They are my closet staple every year!

Top: SheIn size small
Shorts: Handmade Levi's
Shoes: GapKids size 3 (size 6 womens)

What are your styling must haves?


Talk to you soon <3

The Distance

Welcome Back!

I know it's been a hot minute since I've posted anything, so I thought I would talk about something I hear a lot.....(A LOT). As you may or may not know, I have been dating my boyfriend for over 2 years now, and while he completes his degree, we are stuck in long distance.

Photo from our trip to Montréal this past March

Just to clarify by "long distance", I don't mean he lives a few towns over; by long distance, I mean I live in the Pacific North West (PNW), while he lives in France.

Now, every time I mention it in passing, or it is brought up in conversation, I get one of two reactions:

The Debbie Downer: "How? Why? That sucks. I couldn't do that. Meh"

or

The starry-eyed romantic: "*blissful sigh* That's so [sexy/ romantic/ beautiful]. I would love to date a foreign guy. I would love to travel."

While both reactions are fine and not usually a big deal, what the Debbie Downer forgets is that yeah, it's hard, but you know what? If you truly love someone then distance isn't the end of the world, and some of us aren't lucky enough to fall in love with someone who lives in the same town/state/country/continent/whatever. So while, yes, it is hard, please stop acting like it's the end of the world.

As for the starry-eyed romantics, they always talk about how "great" it must be to be dating someone from another country....but to be honest, it can really suck. What they often forget is simple things:

• time differences
• travel costs/ visit (visas, flights, hotels, etc.)
• the almost impossible feat of trying to move to the same country without getting married (some of us actually want to ease into that instead of just marrying for a visa)
• the emotional toll it takes for you to constantly miss someone
• let's not forget the language/ cultural barrier (even if you speak 2 common languages as we do)
• the near constant pressure from everyone around us to just "find someone [in your own country]"
• the constant stress from trying to coordinate even the simple things (Skyping, travel, important events)
• oh, and the hardest one for me? not having him there when something huge happens (graduation, a panic attack, an interview, etc)

 So, while, yes, I appreciate the interest that people generally have, I do think people overlook how hard it is and how hard it's been on the couple.

So my advice for talking to someone in a long distance relationship?

• Please stop telling us how hard it must be....yes, we know. 
• Please stop over-romanticizing it....it's not all easy peasy romance movies.
• Please just understand that we told you the information to simply get it out of the way....not to make a huge deal of it. 

My advice for those thinking of starting a long distance relationship (specifically with someone from another country):

• Try your hardest to understand their culture and tell them about yours
• Make a set schedule for certain times or days to talk or Skype
• Make sure you keep sharing your life, while living it without them (share photos, videos, drawings, whatever you've done that day)
• When you feel yourself getting down or worn thin, reach out to them and let them know. If not, reach out to someone, like me, who is in a similar situation.
• Stay patient (trust me I know how hard it is to be talking and not understand what your significant other is saying...but try not to get angry...especially if your language isn't their first language)
• Give and take (try to give them space for their own life (and yours!))
• Love as passionately as you can (but if you know they aren't right for you, don't get swept up into a fake fairytale just because they are foreign/have a sexy accent/etc. because in the end, it's not fair to either of you.

Until next time,

Amber <3

One Foot In...One Foot Out

Recently, I proper traveled to two foreign countries, knowing only a few people, and I loved it.

However,

Coming back to the US, I realized something that is rather hard to deal with and that most people who travel or live abroad and come home realize and deal with..... 

I suddenly feel like I don't quite belong in either country. 

Now, this isn't supposed to deter anyone from traveling, studying, or even living abroad because it's not. What I guess I am trying to put out is that once you visit a country, you start to see your world differently. You begin to question why we do that, when X country does this, and it's much more practical.

Upon leaving London and France, I gained so much knowledge from seeing how others conduct their life and the different ways each country works to be efficient. Now that I am home, however, it often feels like I am the only one in my family, friends, etc. who seems to get that no one country is perfect, and we could all learn from each country.

Yet, I still don't belong in either country. 

In London, I was too "nice", and my country was often seen as a laughing stock due to the presidential race. 

In France, I wasn't "cultured" enough, didn't dress "properly", didn't know the "rules", and once again, my country was a laughing stock. 

In America, I am too opinionated, dress too nice, want too much, now my second homes are the ones being laughed at. 

I felt so immersed in London's culture, and eventually in France's too, but after returning home, my life seemed to lose something. My friends had gone on living their lives, and my country, along with my parents, was still the same. 

"You've changed" 

, they say.

Well yes, yes I have. And I'm not sorry about it. As humans we evolve. I am just sad that not every human can evolve and see the world and grow as much as humanly possible. 

With that said, I feel by traveling and immersing myself in another culture, I have lost a piece of my "American" identity.... never feeling French enough, English enough, American....enough. Not being X enough can be lonely, but do I regret traveling? 

Never. 

As for now, 

I live one foot in Europe, one foot in America...never quite belonging to one or the other.

Negativity

Negativity is everywhere. We all exude it in one way or another, and to be honest, once you get in the 'negative' slump, it's difficult to get out of. It generally starts with a critique. 

"Why is she doing _____. She's not cool." 

Yet 99% of the people who say these exact phrases try to cover their own negativity by judging others'. For example Friend A says, "Gah, my teacher is so stupid. Like, and the kid next to me is soooo annoying." Friend B replies with, "Oh my God, have you met _____? He thinks he's sooo cool, but he's such a loser." Friend A suddenly goes on the defense with, "Who are you to judge?"

Everyone has been there. I've done it, you've done it, we've all done it. So what makes one negativity better than another?

Reflection.

When I think or say something mean, I have started to automatically reflect on my reasoning.

Say I yell at my mom, "Oh my God, Mom, you're so embarrassing.", I immediately start thinking about how that will affect her. When you begin to think on what you say, you realize how spiteful and painful words can be.  
I have come to a point in my life where ego doesn't matter. Sorry does.

How can someone handle negativity? I think it differs for every person, but I can honestly say that I have found ways of handling negativity by combating it with positivity. 

Here are some of the questions that I ask myself:

• Does this hurt/ insult someone?
• Why is this important?
• Does this directly affect someone's life?
• Would this hurt me?
• How will this impact the person?

After I started to think like this, I started to actually feel happier and less anxious. 

How does one combat negativity with positivity?

The best way I can explain this is by examples so here:

• Instead of commenting on one negative thing about someone, comment about what is great about them.
• Instead of criticizing someone for having fun, join them. Dance part-ay anyone?
• Instead of thinking about how shitty today was, think of all of the great things that happened today (even if it was just being alive and waking up). (Go you!)
• Instead of critiquing yourself on minor imperfections, work on flaunting the aspects that make you feel great (like your killer smile!). 
• Instead of calling someone "stupid", "dumb", or an "idiot", think of something positive about them. Like how "cute" they are or how "smart" they are.
• Instead of crushing the successes of others, encourage them. You lost one pound? Good for you!
• Instead of saying you "hate" _____, say that you appreciate something about it, or simply say "it's not my taste/style". 
• Eliminate hate slang from your vocab. I already mentioned this, but words like: stupid, dumb, idiot, lame, fag, etc. are harmful and honestly make you look like the fool. Lose these words. You'll also gain a better vocabulary and appreciation for everything.
• Instead of trying to fit in, do what makes you happy. 
• Instead of responding to mean comments on a post you made, simply ignore it. Let others see how horrible that person is. 
• Drop all racial slurs, and racist, sexist, and any other-ist from your vocab. We are better than that.
• Instead of becoming angry or embarrassed over something, roll with it, laugh it off.
• Stop getting upset of things that won't matter.
• Remember that you are special, and "You go Glenn Coco!"

I hope this helped everyone in someway. I'm by no means saying I'm perfect at this, but I'm making a conscious effort. This is how I'm living happier and with less anxiety. How do you?

X

Growing Up

Welcome back,

 

Recently, I've been reflecting and thinking about how far I've come. Since my 20th birthday has just passed, I've started worrying about more adult type problems (along with graduating next year!). I feel like growing up is honestly one of scariest, hardest experiences. In the transition of passing "childhood" and entering "adulthood", there have been so many highs and lows. Panic attacks became prevalent, but the attacks have made the small things all that much more important. I thought I would share some tips/ things I've learned from the rockiest times of my life thus far:

• Best friends come when you least expect it. 

I found my best friend in a hellish English class, and our first conversation was debating a guy's sexuality. Besties.

• You are never too busy for those you love.

In the midst of finals, homework, etc., it can easily feel as though you have no time, but trust me, if someone is important, you will always make time.

• Keep the ride or die friends and drop the rest.

Life is too short to live with people who are playing games with you. If you find yourself questioning their love for you or if they are constantly making you feel bad, they are not your friends. I learned this the hard way. As a side note in this, relationships are included. If it feels wrong, it is. Let them go.

• If something makes you happy, do it.

On the same lines as before, we only have one life, so why waste it pretending to be happy? A song makes you want to dance? Dance. I would rather have an 'embarrassing' friend than a friend who is too reserved, and honestly, those who tell you stop or do something else are irrelevant. You do you, girl (boy).

• There will be times when you fall apart.

Trust me, I feel you. Maybe it's stress. Maybe your dog just died. Or maybe it's everything at once. I've been there. I've cried, broken down, but in the end, those who loved me were always there, whether family, friends, or other. They won't judge you because it's normal to feel things.

• Too many things is a bad thing.

For the longest time, I tried to constantly fit in, so I thought material possessions would help. NEWS FLASH: they don't. If anything, it makes you feel materialistic. I recently just purged over 90% of my closet because honestly half of the clothes didn't make me feel happy or confident, same with my makeup. Invest in classic pieces.

• Start a healthy life young, so it will be habit when you're old.

So many people think that their metabolisms will stay high even into adulthood. That's not the case for everyone. Also, being healthy makes you feel so much better. I know it sounds hard now, but trust me, once you stop something, it stops being good. For example, I quit drinking pop and other sugary drinks in 8th grade, and my acne cleared up, I never crave the sugar, and my body revolts at the thought of pop. Drinking pop actually makes me physically sick.

• If it scares you, ask yourself why. If it is an illogical reason, do it anyways.

I've read a lot of posts that say, "if it scares you, do it". I don't think that is necessarily good, but I think that if it's an irrational fear, then you should do it. For example, sometimes I get scared to do something for fear of having a panic attack. While it seems impossible, I continue on with my plans because panic attack or not, I refuse to let my fears hold me back. However, this does not mean do something childishly stupid that could leave you hurt or worse. Use logic.

• Lust and love are not the same thing.

There are two types of attention: good and bad. I would rather have a boy like me when I look super modest than have a boy hit on me at the club. When I was in high school, there was a constant pressure to be sexy, but in reality, those who notice the sexiness are generally just after you physically. It's a one and done deal, not a forever type. Learn the difference and demand respect. Don't settle for less.

• The best role models are the timeless ones.

For me, my role models are people like Audrey Hepburn or Julie Andrews. Both women are classy and fabulously sassy. Another example is Emma Watson. One thing all of these women have in common is their feminist approaches, while still being likeable.

• Every cause is worth the support.

I'm not saying you should be overly passionate about every cause because that doesn't benefit anything. What I am saying is that you should always listen to different views and properly research. I mention this because I used to get annoyed with 'feminists', until I actually researched feminism. It's not about man-hating, it's about equality. Other important causes are sexual-identity issues (LGBTQ) and race issues. One should never be ignorant in these sorts of causes. Everyone is human, stand up for them. You never know who may come out as LGBTQ or who you will see being publicly shamed or hated for their skin color or sex. Stand up for those who are hated against (except Westboro Baptist).

• Never lose an opportunity to tell someone you love them/they are important.

The hardest part about growing up is realizing how much one thing can affect someone. People often think everyone is fine, but it's usually the happiest people who are falling apart on the inside. You never know how close someone is to giving up. Just by giving them a compliment or protecting them from hate can pull them back from the precipice. It's not awkward, and it doesn't make you a 'loser'. Male, female, adult, child, it doesn't matter. Everyone matters, and you should try to make yourself the person that people know will always be there. YOU ARE NEVER ALONE.

And finally,

• Let it go.

I feel like this is a cliché, but I can't bring myself to care. In high school, I was constantly worrying about what others would think, and I would get so upset over small, petty things. Once I started having panic attacks, I realized how insignificant most problems are. When I start to feel angry over some small, insignificant problem,  I feel myself start to get anxious. It's not worth it, so recently, I've been stopping myself to ask, "why is this getting to me?". I know everyone says stuff like, "will this problem really matter in a year" or something, but it's true. I honestly can't remember the last time I was mad about something that actually affected me later. Let it go.

Remember, I love you, and I'm here for you. We are all just trying to figure out this life thing, so stop hating on how one person lives there life. Help them. Now seize the day!

X

Anxiety and Panic Attacks.

Anxiety is one of the hardest things to understand. Some people assume it's caused by some overly traumatic experience (which it can be), and others assume anxiety is just a way to describe weak people. First things first, I want to clear up some often mislead ideas of anxiety:

1. I was not born with anxiety. I was always a cautious child, but that was awareness not fear. My first panic attack was when I was 15 years old driving to cheer practice.

2. I can't always predict what will make me anxious. I know heights, the unknown, death, and modes of transportation heighten my anxiety. However, sometimes I will simply be talking to someone, and the anxiety will hit. Sometimes I can stop it, other times I can't. However, I've noted some things that make me anxious:

• transport (cars, planes, etc)
• laying in bed at night to sleep
• death
• strobe lights
• fog
• overpasses
• bullying
• being late
• forgetting things
• driving
• bridges
• heights
• cold weather

3. Comforting doesn't always help, nor does ignorance. Saying words like, "you're fine", "everything is okay", "just take deep breaths", while these phrases seem great, they do nothing but draw attention to the fact that we are panicking. Instead try words like "I'm here.", "do you want X?", "You are normal/ this is normal.", "I'm so proud of you.", "I love you.", etc. These words work to pull me out of my trance and help me become aware of my surroundings. Also, every anxiety is different. What works for some, doesn't always work for everyone. For me, I need hugs, human contact, and reassuring hand squeezes. These comfort and make me feel safe.

4. Listen and explain. Anxiety is a two way street. It's important for those close to someone with anxiety to listen and support them. However, it is our job to tell our loved ones what is happening. This was difficult for my family because I always seemed so confident and "strong", yet anxiety can make even the strongest feel weak. Telling my parents the extent of my anxiety was probably the hardest thing I've ever done in my life. I cried. Mom cried. Dad hugged. Even though telling them hurt, finally getting it out in the open made it worth it. It made me feel less alone. 

5.  I appreciate your encouragement but don't force me. My parents and friends have done a great job with this one. It's difficult for us, just like everyone else. There were times where I wanted to go shopping with my mom, but as soon as I stepped into the car, I started feeling uncomfortable, dreamlike. Mom would look at me, know, and simply talk the whole way to the mall, holding my hand the whole drive. Although my anxiety has gotten 100x's better than before, I still have my moments, and once anxiety has been forgotten a little, it's difficult to encourage without forcing. Just ask my parents.

6. The best help is to find something that calms us. For me, it's absorbing myself into something I love: painting, hiking, sports, games, etc. These activities create a calm clear mind. It's like starting over. 

7. Dealing with panic attacks use every ounce of energy. After a panic attack, I feel like I just spent the whole day running a marathon. I want to sleep and do other lazy activities. However, panic attacks do not make someone weak. They make you feel weak. There's a definitive difference. People with panic attacks are the strongest people out there because everyday, they are fighting themselves. They fight things others can neither see nor understand.

Okay, now that some of that is cleared up, lets continue: 

So Amber, how do you deal with your anxiety?

Well, everyone is different, so what works for me may not work for you. This question honestly depends on the situation and the level of anxiety, so let me break it down:

High Anxiety

This is my weakest moment, so I usually try to:

• find a safe, quiet room
• be with someone I trust
• hold onto someone I trust
• cry
• listen to music
• grab something soft
• lay down
• step away from the situation

Mild Anxiety

• try to find somewhere comfortable
• listen to music
• try deep breathing
• hug someone
• call someone I trust
• lay down
• draw/paint/clean

Low Anxiety

• listen to music
• deep breathing
• think of something funny
• hug someone
• call someone I trust
• exercise
• tell myself "no" and say I will be okay (this might just work for me)

Does school affect anxiety?

YES. I can't emphasize enough how much school affects anxiety. The worst time for me is finals week. Stress+anxiety? Ugh, no. 

My friend/loved one is suffering from anxiety, what can I do?

The best answer I can give is to ask them what you can do. What do they need/want/think. Let them know they are 100% normal, accepted, and definitely not a burden. 

How do you do things that scare you without panicking?

It's almost impossible. If it scares me, I will panic, but the important thing for me is pushing through that. I know the difference between reluctance and fear. The hardest part is figuring out what actually scares you vs. just thinking everything will cause panic.

How can you handle flying?

Planes are both amazing and awful. They terrify me. I hate take off, and sometimes, I feel trapped on the plane. I love landing though. These are some of the things that help me when I feel anxious: 

• listen to my favorite music on loud
• sleep
• wear an eye cover
• keep myself busy (homework/ editing videos/ typing)
• watching the flight tracker (This is available on Southwest flights. I don't know about other airlines) 
• picturing the destination
• squeezing my teddy
• have water, lots of water

Are you okay?

Is anyone ever truly "okay"? I'm happy and saying yes, and that's the best I can do. Thanks for asking, though. ♥

Remember: you are never alone. There are so many people who suffer from anxiety. It's normal, and there is always someone here for you (me ^.^).

♥

7 Things I've learned About Family

Welcome Back <3

Throughout my life, I have been through more heartache than most people have even thought of. I have watched as over half of my family died, and the other half fell apart. I learned so much from these horrible events, so I decided to share what I've learned!

1. Family isn't always by blood.

I had a pretty amazing childhood, even after: my grandma's death, my family's falling out, and the horrible problem that are panic attacks. After moping about for awhile in a casual "woe is me" style and after my family has somewhat made amends, I realized my life is still filled with happiness because of my 'adopted' family. My best friend is so close to me that it's hard to remember that we aren't actually twins. 

2. Love, protect, and cherish those you love.

This one is a huge deal for me. I lost my role model when I was 8, and afterwards, instead of leaning on my parents, I was filled with a deep anger. After my mom was in her wreck, I realized how easily people can be taken from us. Cherish everyone. Even if it creeps people out, tell your loved ones how much you love them everyday. You never know when they will be taken from you. Make sure you've told them how much you love them.

3. Never let them leave or go to bed angry or hurt.

I know it means sucking up your pride, but I would rather apologize and work through things than leave someone to hurt and stew alone. As I mentioned before, you never know what will happen. I would rather have someone happy than upset and possibly distracted. 

4. Love is unconditional and beautiful.

I can't even begin to count the arguments and anger I've felt towards my parents, but it's okay because in the end, they have always been there for me. Even when I was terrified of telling my parents something, it always worked out in the end because we love each other. My best memories with my parents are the ones that can't be bought or replace. Going on trips and spending time together are my happiest moments with everyone, friends included.

5. Showing your weaknesses doesn't make you weak.

The hardest thing I've ever told my parents is: "I've been panicking non-stop for 3 months straight, and I don't know how to stop it." At first, they didn't know how to handle it, but after telling them what I needed during those times, they gladly gave me hugs and hands when needed. My best friend does the same. I was terrified of people thinking I'm "crazy", but those who matter simply said, "okay...how can I help?". Showing your weaknesses can help you overcome and strengthen yourself...just make sure it's to the right people.

6. Pain will heal.

Things happen. Let them make you better not bitter. I know it feels like the end of the world, but trust me: you will survive. There is always someone who loves you. Lean on them. Don't dwell, and if you're going to cry, do it with someone. It's more healing.

7. If you have the opportunity, take it!

Do you have the opportunity to do something that absolutely terrifies you? Great, do it! You life is in your hands. My family are filled with so many regrets and what if's. They helped me realized that life isn't just handed to you. You have to grab life and face it head-on. Fears or no fears. It's all up to you.

New Years by the Sea

Hello lovelies,

Over the New Years holiday, my parents and I were invited out to our good friends' house out at Seaview, WA. This was actually the first New Years that we went somewhere, which sounds very sad. 

On an egotistical note, I was obsessed with my hair and makeup, so I thought I would share the whole look.

 

What I'm wearing: 

Long Sleeve V-neck- F21

Skirt- F21

Makeup: 

Face:

Tinted Moisturizer- VS Pro in Light

Concealer- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind

Pressed Powder- Rimmel Stay Matte in Transparent

Blush- Stila in Blushing Bouquet

Bronzer/contour- NYC Smooth Skin Bronzer in Sunny

Highlighter- VS Pro Magic Fix Radiant Flash Brightening Cream

Eyes:

Eye Shadows- Urban Decay Naked3 Pallet,

Eye Glitter- VS Pro Eye Shimmer in Night Lights

Eye Liner- L'Oréal Infallible Super Slim Liner in Black

Mascara- Tarte's Light Camera Splashes

Eyebrows:

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz in Medium Ash

Lips:

Lip Liner- Covergirl Lipperfection Lipliner in Passion

Lipstick- NYX Matte Lipstick in Indie Flick

Anywho, we had a blast at the sea.

It was freezing, but absolutely gorgeous. 

 

This is the bridge that leads to the WA side of the ocean. Its over 5 miles long!

How was your New Years?

Amber 

x

9 Stages of Finals Week

Hello Lovelies, 

I hate finals.

Cool story, Amber. So do thousands of other humans. 

Alright, alright. Let's make this a little more bearable shall we?

Finals in a nutshell

Stage 1. Denial 

"Hmm...finals? What are finals?"

Stage 2. Avoidance 

Thank you Heath Ledger for teaching me about the art of avoiding all my problems. 

Stage 3. Depression

Trust me girl we've all been there. Eat the chocolate....chocolate soothes everything.

 Stage 4. Acceptance

Some people just want to see the world burn.

Stage 6. Mad Cram Sessions

"I just....need....the printer..."

"So many words.....so much effort..."

"Alright number 1 done....time for a nap."

Stage 6.5 Two Words: Library. War-zone.

"OMG, Mom. I almost died today....mhmm...mhmm...AT THE LIBRARY."

"OPEN CHAIR...MINE!"

Stage 7. All Nighters

"But....Test...Tomorrow...."

"What do you mean those aren't a thing????"

"Mom? Is that you?"

"Why didn't I go to study sessions?"

"When did we ever learn that?!"

"Go to college they said. It'll be fun they said."

 Stage 8. FINALS DAY

"I honestly don't even know what I wrote."

"Wait....IT'S ALREADY TUESDAY?! My test is in an hour.... *hysterically sobs"

"Must.... get.......to.....wait...Where was I going again? Oh, right....finals."

"Mom, please let me drop out..."

"Why did you put everything on the test that I didn't study?"

"Well.... I tried right?....and I wrote my name....That has to give me some points, right?"

"Wait....THAT TEST WAS 80% OF MY GRADE?!"

"I tried, Mom."

Stage 9. It's Over

"Sleep....I need sleep.....WAIT.....IT'S OVER!"

 Good luck on finals!

X

My Top Tips for Studying a Foreign Language

Bonjour mes beautés!

This post is going to be slightly different from my usual posts because instead of updating everyone on my life, I'm going to share some tips on studying a new language.

In case I haven't mentioned it before on here, I am a French and English major (a struggling French major, but a major nonetheless). These are just some things that I have found to be extremely helpful when learning a second language.

1. Practice is key. 

When I was just beginning French (8 years ago), I would constantly try to use my given vocabulary. For example, one of the first batch of words we learned were colors, numbers, and basic introductions. So if I saw a number (let's say 10), I would say ten, but in my head I would repeat it in French, dix. Languages are easier when you try to use them outside of the classroom.

Since our generation is so keen on technology, I thought I might as well include an app that I use and find helpful.

Duolingo

Duolingo is for those who have a background in French (I started after taking basic French in middle school). It's a fairly simple app that is easy to follow.
It has multiple language options, so it is not limited to just French!

2. Talk to people.

This goes hand in hand with my last point because it is practice outside of class. If your friends are in your class with you, try speaking in French for 10-15 minutes a day with each other. Trust me, it will be super awkward in the beginning, but by the third or fourth time, you'll begin to look forward to it. If you screw up, that's okay. When I speak with Rhees, we mess up frequently, but we laugh it off and try to explain around the words we don't know. It's like a game!

If you don't feel comfortable physically speaking to someone, you can always try texting, emailing, or writing pen pals. (Always be cautious if it is someone you do not know. Never give out information and stay safe!)

3. Wordreference is your new best friend.

I use wordreference way more than a dictionary because it's quick, easily accessible (they have an app for smart phones!), up to date, and it can help with certain phrases. Be cautious of the dreaded forums though. Sometimes they can help, but they can also be horribly wrong (it's similar to Yahoo Answers).

4. If you can meet with natives, do it!

Natives are very understanding (generally) of the struggles to learn their language. I have some really good friends from France who try to help me with any questions I have. They can also give you exposure to the speed and fluidity of their language. You'll also learn secret shortcuts for if you ever study abroad! They can teach you slang and ways to combine words to speak faster (in English we sometimes say: D'ya wanna go to the store? when we need to say it quick. It's the same in French and most other languages).

5. Entertainment

Music, movies, books, video games, etc. can all help. I started off watching Madeline (similar to Dora the Explorer), and then, I gradually watched more complex movies/TV shows. In high school, my French teacher would have us read fairytales and short books in French with minimal help, and then we would watch the movie (in French of course!) in class with subtitles in French (in case they spoke to fast). I found this really helpful, personally. Books are lovely, and since I'm a nerd, it's my favorite part. Start small by reading children's books (Le petit prince, La belle et la bête, and more!) and gradually work your way towards harder books like Le comte de monte-cristo.

Madeline the book

 I like listening to music a lot, so I started out small by listening to a common French singer, Stromae. Be warned: he uses a lot of slang! Gradually, I started listening to other genres of music. Edith Piaf is fabulous.

6. Study abroad or travel abroad!
Trust me, I understand the money struggle, but the money is 100% worth it. I'm planning on going abroad in college, and I am stoked! Study abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and it's your chance to be in a country around their natives. There are a millions of options available at your fingertips: your school study abroad office, API, AIFS, EF, etc.

 7. Homework and Exercises
Trust me, I know the struggle of doing homework and exercises. I hated them too, so I had moments where I wouldn't do them because I wanted to watch T.V. or go do something. It's hard to just sit down and do it, but I promise it makes a huge difference. Writing in pen also works well (when you know what you are doing!).

So there you have it! These are my tips for studying a foreign language.
Do you have an other advice? Have these worked for anyone else?

Au revoir et bonne chance!

X 

Amber

Busy, Busy, Busy....

Hello Lovelies,

How have you been? I feel like I haven't written a blog post in forever!

I have some big news to share....

I went to Chicago, and I decided what better way to spend my first time in Chicago than with you guys?

I traveled with my best friend, Brittney, and let me tell you, Chicago is so much fun.

The past month has been crazy, but I have so much more exciting news coming up in the next few months.

I feel like I need to spill....

I'M GOING TO FRANCE!

No, not for vacation, as you might be speculating. No, I am going to France for a whole semester.

I repeat: A WHOLE SEMESTER!

Now, I know what some of you may be thinking:

"Amber, aren't you scared of planes" ...Deathly, but whatever

"Have you even been outside of the U.S.?" Nope, but it's cool.

"What about you family and friends?" Well....They are obviously staying in the U.S., duh.

"Aren't you slightly scared?" I feel like I might pass out from anxiety, but honestly, I can't bring myself to care.

Anyways, going to France means one thing: everyone is coming with me on here!

Now without further interruption, the video I promised:

X

Something New?!

Ahh...school...

 

Hello my loves,

I am back once again! I thought I would try something new for once. I know...I know...hold your gasps.

Alright so quick update from this week: 

1. I am finally almost done with my study abroad application *fingers crossed*

2. This year, I joined Her Campus at KU! I am a campus cutie writer ;)

3. I went to a Sporting KC football match...I REPEAT A SPORTING KC FOOTBALL MATCH!

Here are some fab pics:

We kinda stole these front row seats...YOLO?

This is Mariela; she's from Costa Rica!

Mariela, Me, Adam, and Alex!

At the Top of the Stadium

The ISS Group!

And now...for the moment you've all been waiting for.... 

*drum roll please*

I am going to share some of my favorites of this month with you!

1. Garnier Miracle Skin Perfecter BB Cream

Although I usually hate this type of BB cream (because it usually makes my skin oily and causes a breakout), but this particular BB cream makes my acne go away, and it makes my skin look fabulous!

 

2. Hollister Super Skinny Jeans

 

Now I know, "Abercrombie is such a horrible company and blah blah", but these jeans are the only ones that actually fit me perfectly! They also come in a variety of washes, and I got them on sale for $20 each.

3. Plato's Closet

I have recently been thrifting a lot, and out of all the places I go, Plato's always has the best options. On the down side, Plato's is somewhat pricey. 

 

4. Coach handbags

I recently bought this gem in a Coach Outlet Store for $80 (originally $200). I love neutral purses, and when I saw this baby, I had to buy it!

5. Tae Bo

Recently, I have been trying to get my abs back, and Tae Bo is has become my go to work out. Tae Bo is a mixture of Tae Kwon Do and Boxing. I usually just search YouTube for a different Tae Bo workout every day.

6. Plum- Go Bars

 These bars are so delish and even better? They are organic and made with veggies. So far, I have only been able to find these bars at Target!

7. Dickinson's Witch Hazel Toner

This toner smells god awful but works wonders. My skin always feels tight (in a good way), and this toner doesn't dry my skin out. Oh, don't forget that it's cheap!

8. WordReference

 Okay, I know this is a website, but if you are like me (studying a foreign language), WordReference.com is the best tool. It even has an app!

 

9. Victoria's Secret Dark Orchid

This perfume smells like autumn and heaven. It's described as a dark plum with fruity undertones. 

10. TRESemmé- Platinum Strength Heat Protector

There's not much to say on this product besides: it's cheap, and it works. I've been using this heat protectant for almost 6 years.

11. Formula 10.0.6- So Totally Clean Deep Pore Cleanser

I've been using this on and off for around 2 years. Right now, I have a travel size that I got for free from Ulta. The only reason I don't use this regularly is due to the drying it causes. It is also known for burning slightly on sensitive skin, but this cleans everything out.

12. Neutrogena- Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser

I originally bought this because I ran out of my other cleanser and decided my old cleanser wasn't working. It was cheap and seemed good for sensitive skin. Man am I glad I bought this. This cleanser is amazing and it takes off makeup while cleansing. 

13. Pink Sugar- Body Mousse

I originally bought this because it was on the sale rack at TJ Maxx for $1.99. I have repurchased this body mousse twice now because: it smells heavenly and moisturizes my body for 24 hours.

15. Hannah Maggs- YouTube

I started watching Hannah Maggs this past May, and I adore her. If you haven't watched her vlogs, you are seriously missing out.

16. Glass Animals- Hazey

Such a beautiful song

17. Live Nation App

I just bought my the 1975 tickets through them. I was one of the first to buy them, and they have the cheapest tickets.

 

Well...That's all from me.

Later Lovelies, 

 

X Amber